From the Buffalo News

Public authorities are in need of reform

5/23/2004

The May 16 newspaper was one of the best issues ever published by The Buffalo News. Two of the greatest articles that I have ever read in the publication - "One heritage, two worlds" and "New York's shadow government" - showed prize-winning ability, not only in writing, but in the extreme dedication and perseverance in researching these stories.
The information contained in "Shadow government" was unbelievably difficult to obtain in some cases. Many of our representatives cannot find the information contained in the article. It should be forwarded to them in Albany.

The 643 public authorities are a public disgrace. As pointed out in the editorial, there is an extreme need for reform. Neither party is exempt in allowing this nightmare for taxpayers to continue out of control.

The most necessary change is to allow the comptroller the right to approve all authority contracts, not just state agency contracts. Greater accountability to both the comptroller's office and the attorney general must be part of the immediate reform. Taxpayers should write to their representatives and demand reform.

Gary S. Lane

North Tonawanda